Semriach – cave worlds, gorge hikes and the Styrian high plateau

Nature experience north of Graz – ideal for hiking days, family outings and geology enthusiasts

Semriach is located approximately 25 km north of Graz on a sunny plateau in the Graz Uplands. This market town combines impressive natural landscapes, geological features, and a long history as a trading and mining center.

Surrounded by forested ridges, gorges, and high-altitude trails, Semriach is best known for its spectacular Lurgrotte Cave—Austria's largest active water cave, with meter-high stalactites and underground chambers. In addition, the wildly romantic Kesselfall Gorge, numerous hiking trails, and historical sites and churches offer a diverse program for nature enthusiasts, active vacationers, and families.

Despite its quiet location, Semriach is easily accessible and is perfect for day trips or as a starting point for longer exploration tours in the Graz Mountains.

Lurgrotte Semriach

• largest active water cave in Austria
• Stalactite giants, cave lakes and guided tours through impressive underground halls
• accessible as part of guided tours

Kesselfall Gorge

• romantic gorge hike over footbridges and waterfall passages
• ideal for families and beginners
• Entry not far from the town center

Hiking & enjoying nature

• High plateau with paths around the Hochtrötsch and Rötschgraben
• Viewpoints, streams and disused alpine pastures
• ideal for spring and autumn hikes

Cultural highlights

• Late Gothic parish church of Semriach with baroque interior
• Roman grave (tumulus at Krienzerkogel) as an archaeological monument
• Relics from the mining era and traditional local structures

• 🚗 By car: approx. 30 minutes via A9 and L318
• 🚌 Public transport: direct regional lines from Graz main station
• 🚴 By bike: Connection via Gratkorn, Deutschfeistritz and Rötschgraben

The history of Semriach dates back to the Neolithic period – the first traces of human settlement date back to the Repolust Cave, one of the most important Paleolithic sites in Central Europe.

Semriach was first mentioned in a document in 1320. In the Middle Ages, thanks to its favorable trading location and deposits of mineral resources – especially silver – the town developed into an important market town with its own mining history.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, large parts of today's municipal area were developed for agriculture. Many farms, forest plots, and scattered settlements date from this period.

Today, Semriach combines historical cultural landscape, geological treasures and a well-developed network of tourist trails – a place with a history and nature that is constantly evolving.